Dependent Care FSA Calculator
Calculate how much you will save in taxes by contributing to a Dependent Care FSA in 2026. The $5,000 household limit ($2,500 married filing separately) comes off your paycheck pre-tax, avoiding federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare.
What Is a Dependent Care FSA?
A Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA) is an employer-sponsored benefit that lets you set aside up to $5,000 per year of pre-tax income to pay for qualified childcare, preschool, before/after school care, and certain elder care. Because contributions are deducted before federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare are withheld, a family in the 24% bracket typically saves $1,500-$2,000 on a fully funded DCFSA.
2026 DCFSA Contribution Limits
For 2026, the DCFSA limit is $5,000 per household for married-filing-jointly or single filers, and $2,500 per person for married-filing-separately. This limit is set by the IRS and has not changed since the 1980s, which is why it is so valuable — it is one of the only childcare tax breaks not phased out at higher incomes.
DCFSA vs Child and Dependent Care Credit
You can use both, but not on the same dollars. Most families with employer DCFSAs max them out first because the tax savings are typically larger than the credit. The credit remains useful if you have 2+ kids and childcare over $5,000 — you can claim the credit on up to $6,000 of expenses minus anything already run through the DCFSA. The calculator shows your FSA savings only.
Qualified DCFSA Expenses
Eligible: daycare centers, preschools, summer day camps, before/after school programs, nannies or au pairs, and adult daycare for dependents. NOT eligible: overnight camps, private school tuition for kindergarten and above, and babysitting for date nights. The dependent must be under 13 or physically/mentally incapable of self-care, and the expense must enable you (and your spouse if married) to work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2026 Dependent Care FSA limit?
The 2026 DCFSA limit is $5,000 per household for married-filing-jointly and single filers, or $2,500 per person for married filing separately. This is a household cap, not per child — adding a second child does not raise it.
What expenses are eligible for DCFSA reimbursement?
Qualified expenses include daycare, preschool, summer day camps, before/after school care, and nannies/au pairs for children under 13. Also eligible: adult daycare for dependents incapable of self-care. Not eligible: overnight camps, K-12 school tuition.
Can I use both a DCFSA and the Child Care Credit?
Yes, but not on the same expenses. Most families max the DCFSA first, then claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit on any additional childcare costs (up to $6,000 for 2+ kids, minus DCFSA amounts).
What happens if I don't use my DCFSA balance?
DCFSAs are use-it-or-lose-it — unused funds are forfeited at year end. Some employers allow a short grace period (2.5 months into the next year) or a small carryover. Always estimate conservatively.
Can stay-at-home parents use a DCFSA?
No. Both spouses must have earned income (or be actively job-searching, in school full-time, or disabled). The contribution is also capped at the lower-earning spouse's earned income if less than $5,000.
How do I enroll in a DCFSA?
Enrollment happens during your employer's open enrollment period, typically in the fall for the following plan year. You can only change your election mid-year for a qualifying life event (marriage, birth, divorce, childcare provider change).